Vermont House Bill H0526

Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Refer: 1/3/24

Caption

An act relating to the redesign of Bridge 9 in Barre City

Impact

The inclusion of Bridge 9 redesign into the Agency of Transportation’s Town Highway Bridges Program reflects a legislative recognition of the need to adapt infrastructure to climate-related challenges. The intended completion date of this project is set for June 30, 2028. This strategic upgrade aims not only to protect local property and public safety but also to provide a broader framework for transportation resilience across the state, potentially serving as a model for future projects in similar vulnerable areas.

Summary

House Bill H0526 aims to address the critical need for flood resilience in Barre City by proposing the redesign or removal of Bridge 9, situated over Stevens Branch. Following significant public and private property damage during the flooding events on July 10 and July 11, 2023, the bill highlights the urgent necessity to enhance the bridge's capacity to withstand future flooding. The redesign efforts may include either increasing the high-water clearance of the bridge or replacing its current abutments with designs that permit greater water flow, ultimately aiding in minimizing damage from similar future events.

Contention

While the bill emphasizes the necessity of immediate action for safety and infrastructure resilience, debates may arise regarding funding allocation and prioritization of such projects. Some legislative discussions may question whether the focus should be solely on Bridge 9 or if resources are to be spread across multiple infrastructure needs within the state. Moreover, there could also be considerations regarding the environmental impact of such redesigns and the involvement of local communities in the decision-making process. If the bridge cannot be redesigned effectively, the bill allows for its removal, which may ignite discussions about the availability of alternative transportation routes and their implications for local traffic.